The Philadelphia 76ers can now breathe easy now that the James Harden trade saga is over.
The Philadelphia 76ers finally got an issue settled following reports that James Harden has been traded to the LA Clippers.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, the Sixers sent the 2018 NBA MVP along with P.J. Tucker and Filip Petrusev to the Clippers in exchange for Nicolas Batum, Marcus Morris, Robert Covington, KJ Martin along with multiple draft picks.
The Sixers are acquiring Marcus Morris, Nic Batum, Robert Covington, KJ Martin, multiple draft picks and a pick swap for James Harden, PJ Tucker and Filip Petrusev, sources tell ESPN. https://t.co/fSOkgO5xd3
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 31, 2023
The LA Clippers were the only team who expressed interest in Harden since the 10-time All-Star requested a trade back in June.
Where do the Sixers go from here?
With the James Harden trade issue out of the way, Philly can focus on the task at hand. However, it appears the Sixers may not end up keeping the assets they got from the Harden deal and instead use them in acquiring other talent who can help the 76ers’ cause per Adrian Wojnarowski.
Get up with @Espngreeny on the James Harden blockbuster pic.twitter.com/dIe4iFrZuO
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 31, 2023
There are suggestions that the Sixers may explore other deals. The names of Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls and OG Anunoby of the Toronto Raptors are potential targets according to Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated.
Some of the early chatter on names to watch with Philadelphia: Zach LaVine and OG Anunoby. LaVine is the kind of scorer/ball handler the Sixers could use. Anunoby is the versatile defender Philly needs against Boston/MIL in the playoffs.
— Chris Mannix (@SIChrisMannix) October 31, 2023
Will the Clippers roll with James Harden?
James Harden joins a team with other players who want the ball in their hands most of the time. Although “The Beard” has shown he can serve as a playmaker, it will be interesting how he can co-exist with Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and Russell Westbrook.
Ironically, he will be reunited with Westbrook whom he played alongside when both started with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Last Hurrah for James Harden?
Given his history of wanting out from his past NBA teams, the Clippers could be Harden’s last stop. The lack of interest alone when he sought a trade is a sign that most teams do now want to take in a player who is always discontent.
At 34 years old, Harden’s NBA career is at a crossroads. If his stint with the Clippers does not work out, he could be the next NBA star enjoying the games on the sidelines.